If you rent a storage, you know full well that it is difficult to maintain a well-organized and efficient storage space. Objects can in fact accumulate over time and require good organization to facilitate item searches. Suddenly, the management of your storage can become a real nightmare. This is why it is advisable to practice 5S method. It can help you find the control of your storage space. However, you must first know if this technique is applicable to a storage unit.
5S storage method: a technique that adapts to all situations
The 5S storage process is a method of managing the storage environment. It aims to perfect organization, cleanliness and safety by ensuring your space remains tidy, cleaned and secure. It is of Japanese origin and was created for the production of Toyota factories. It is part of the concept of “kaizen”, which means “change to continuously improve”. The 5S method is simple and quick to implement and can be adapted to all situations.
And precisely the 5S method is entirely applicable to a storage unit. In fact, it can be very useful for organizing and maintaining a clean, tidy and easily accessible storage unit. As its name suggests, this technique is made up of five steps, namely:
- Seiri: sort it out;
- Seiton: storage and organization;
- Seiso: deep cleaning;
- Seiketsu: establishment of norms and rules;
- Shitsuke: Maintaining standards.
Method 1: Seiri, to sort items stored in the storage unit
The Seiri method can be applied to sort objects stored in a storage unit. It is crucial to keep what is necessary and get rid of unnecessary things. It is also advisable to reduce the number of items to the minimum quantity necessary.
To apply the Seiri method, you should start by making a list of all stored objects. Next, you have to examine each item and decide whether it is essential or not. Those that are not important can be sold, donated or thrown away. Items that are essential should be categorized and organized so that they are easily accessible when needed.
Method 2: Seiton, to store and organize storage items for easy access and viewing
The Seiton method is part of the 5S method which consists of arranging elements in an orderly and structured manner. Its aim is to facilitate access and visualization. To successfully complete this technique, it is recommended to follow the following three steps:
- Do a preliminary sorting;
- Determine where to store objects;
- Arrange items in an orderly manner.
By applying this method, it is possible to save time and be more efficient by avoiding certain unnecessary actions. It also reduces the risk of errors due to poor organization of storage items. In addition, injuries related to improper handling of misplaced objects are reduced.
On the other hand, it is wise to create a clear and simple storage system for all staff to follow. This may include the use of shelves, boxes and labels. This will make it easy for you to clearly identify what is inside each container or box.
Method 3: Seiso, to deep clean the storage unit
The first thing to do is to start by clearing your storage of everything that is useless or that no longer serves you. This initial step joins the carrying out of sorting. This will allow you to work more efficiently and not waste time cleaning items that are not necessary. Next, wash the clothes that have been stored in your closet to get rid of the odor caused by storage.
Method 4: Seiketsu, set up rules to keep the storage unit tidy and clean
Seiketsu aims to maintain the first three stages of the method (Seiri, Seiton and Seiso) in place. It also consists of applying rules to maintain order and cleanliness in the long term. To implement this technique, it is recommended to respect two specific points, namely:
- Implementation of rules and procedures to maintain order and cleanliness in the storage unit;
- The establishment of a regular monitoring and verification system to ensure that these principles are respected.
Method 5: Shitsuke to maintain established standards by ensuring everyone follows the storage rules
The term “Shitsuke” refers to the final stage of the 5S method, which aims to maintain established standards. It also ensures the continuity of efforts made to organize the workplace. It also involves involving all the people who work in the storage area. We must ensure that they constantly apply this step. It is indeed essential to maintain an organized system and ensure that everyone follows established procedures.
An audit checklist 5 can be used to assess the implementation of this method at storage level. It is also necessary to ensure that the principles of 5S are respected, including the last step of Shitsuke.
